Alvaro Recoba is pleading with coach Hector Cuper to play him in a striking role more often after firing Inter Milan to victory at Bologna.

The Uruguayan netted twice, the first a wonderful curling free-kick and the second a neat lob, to maintain Inter`s interest in the title race and also give their confidence a much-needed boost following last weekend`s 3-0 hammering at Juventus.

Recoba, who was playing in attack alongside on-loan Gabriel Batistuta, to allow Christian Vieri time to recover fitness in time for tomorrow's Champions League clash with Newcastle, relished the opportunity to get forward more often, having spent much of the season on the left side of midfield.

"I've played well on the wing but it's more difficult. I think I played better as a second striker against Bologna," he said. "For sure, I can do more harm that far up front. I also adapt myself to playing where the boss tells me to by making more effort.

"I'm very satisfied, above all because because my goals gave the team victory."

Julio Cruz equalised for a stubborn Bologna just four minutes after the home side were reduced to 10 men following the dismissal of Carlo Nervo, and they were happy to keep the score at 1-1, only to be denied a point by Recoba's late winner. The good news for Newcastle is that Recoba is unavailable tomorrow night due to suspension.